Is Extension Socket the Best Bolt Locking Method?

Extension sockets or Nord-Lock washers? Let us take you through the key parameters so that you can make the right choice.

	Extension Socket	Nord-Lock Wedge-Locking
Locking capability	Not reliable. May loosen eventually.	Reliable. High and constant quality of the product.
Product range	Not advisable for large bolts, as parts and assembly will be expensive.	M3-M130 (standard range)
Clamp length	Good flexibility in joint, since clamp length is always long. This compensates for settlements, but cannot prevent rotation.	Safely secures both long and short clamp lengths, by preventing rotation.
Control over clamp load	Due to the risk of loosening, lubrication is not recommended, which results in larger clamp load deviation.	Locking function not affected by lubrication, which provides for good control over clamp load.
Reusability	Reusable	Reusable. It does not affect the reusability of bolts/nuts.
Used in confined spaces	Limited use in confined spaces, due to extension body and long bolt. Bulky design solutions.	Suitable for and easy to assemble in confined spaces.
Life cycle cost	High. Relatively high price per unit. Eventual loosening will lead to increased maintenance costs and downtime.	Low. Relatively high price per unit. However, improved productivity, minimized maintenance costs and reusability will lead to lower life cycle costs.

Which bolt locking product should I use?

Get your free eBook on the topic of bolt loosening and see how different bolt locking products perform.

What you will find in the eBook:

Pros and cons of the different bolt locking methods
Evaluation of different products
A print-friendly Guidance for Selection, to help you decide which product to use in your applications